[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Businesses and community groups in Renfrewshire are once again being offered shovels to help make sure they are prepared for the possibility of severe weather this winter.

The initiative is part of Renfrewshire Council’s Ready for Winter campaign, which aims to encourage the public to do their bit to make sure they are prepared for the severe weather winter can bring.

Ready for Winter includes a wide range of measures in place to keep Renfrewshire moving over the winter, with gritters being on standby 24/7 to grit the areas 500 mile network of priority roads and pavements and over 400 grit bins available to provide members of the public with salt.

The public are also being provided with tips and advice to help them prepare for the winter, including how to prepare an emergency pack, avoiding frozen and burst pipes, clearing driveways and paths and how to keep safe when driving in winter.

The shovels will help business owners and community groups to stay accessible to the public despite the weather.

Councillor Eddie Devine, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Environment Policy Board said: “We’ve had a number of mild winters recently, but its vital Renfrewshire is prepared for severe winter weather. The poor weather conditions that winter brings can make it more difficult for people to get around and get on with their everyday business.

“By offering shovels to local businesses and community groups, it’ll be easier for them to keep their doors open throughout winter.

“We’d also like to remind people that severe weather conditions can make things particularly tough for elderly or vulnerable in the community, so we’d encourage everyone to keep an eye on your neighbours and help out if you can, whether it’s by clearing a driveway or picking up some groceries.

“By working together and looking out for each other we can keep Renfrewshire moving this winter.”

Business owners looking for more information on winter safety on their premises should go to www.readyscotland.org.

Community groups who want to do their bit during periods of prolonged bad weather should contact Renfrewshire Wardens for salt and grit supplies on 0300 300 0380.

For more information about the Ready for Winter campaign, including information on Winter gritting, useful contact numbers and advice on how to do your bit, go to www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/winter

Updates on gritting and winter weather advice are also available on Renfrewshire Council’s Twitter @rencouncilnews and Facebook page www.facebook.com/renfrewshire.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]